Derik the Great

NOTE: I meant to post this last evening but couldn't get a connection. Sorry for the delay...

Thursday, March 8th
When you work 18 hours a day get very little sleep it’s difficult to put together a coherent rant. But, I’ll give it a try anyway. It’s been another extremely busy day here in Branson, MO. We got up early, grabbed a quick “breakfrist” and headed out to the Keeter Gymnasium to cover the first ever game for Indiana Wesleyan in the NAIA Division II Men’s Basketball National Championships. After the game we conducted some player interviews and spent the afternoon and evening putting together the next edition of Wildcat Week.

The IWU men’s team put together an incredible effort this morning. They played a very strong defensive game and were simply on fire from the field, particularly in the second half. It was a lot of fun and a joy to watch this team play so well. It’s been just as much fun having the opportunity to interact with the coaches and players during along the way. They are great group of guys and a true credit to our university.

IWU is now the last team from the MCC alive in this tournament. The University of Saint Francis lost last night to College of the Ozarks and this evening Huntington was upset by Florida Memorial. We watched in near shock as HU struggled all evening long to get something going. For those of you who have seen the Forester’s play this year, you can understand our surprise. Now the Wildcats carry the MCC banner alone.

Before I go…a note of recognition. MANY THANKS to Derik Hughes for all his work here in Branson! He has been working literally around the clock getting footage of practices, games, and interviews then producing all the packages for you to enjoy. It is a very time and labor intensive process. If you enjoy catching tournament updates and the tournament editions of Wildcat Week from Branson on Wildcat Central, then you have Derik to thank for it.